Hobart, capital city of Tasmania, Australia’s second oldest and second driest city, and Australia’s most southerly city is located in the south east of Tasmania,  Established on the broad estuary of the scenic Derwent River and around 19 km from the river mouth, this fascinating city is built around a beautiful deepwater harbour, with snow-covered Mt Wellington forming a magnificent backdrop. It was established in 1804 and its excellent location ensured its success as a seaport and by the 1880’s Hobart was classified as a city.
Many of Hobart’s distinctive colonial sandstone buildings were constructed by convicts during the early 19th Century who then formed a significant part of Hobart’s population.
There is just so much to do in Hobart, exploring its scenery, extensive historical buildings, dining on fresh seafoods, restaurants, shopping, parks and gardens, museums and much, much more providing unlimited opportunities to make the most of your Tasmanian experience.
Hobart is still very much a maritime city, with fishing trawlers and ships from all over the world docking almost in town. Visit Victoria Dock and stroll around Constitution Dock. If you time your visit around Boxing Day until New Year, you’ll witness the magnificent array of yachts from the famous annual Sydney to Hobart yacht race.
Hobart is also renowned for its historical buildings. The National Trust has classified more than 90 and most of these are located in Davey and Macquarie Streets. Visit the Anglesea Barracks (c1846) located in Davey Street, unique for still being in use by the army.
In Macquarie Street, visit the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, it has an excellent historical collection including early paintings and prints, convict memorabilia and Aboriginal artifacts, plus the original Commissariat Store (1808-10).
If you’re into the performing arts then include a visit to Hobart's Theatre Royal (1837), a short walk from the museum, famous for being Australia’s oldest operating theatre.
Nearby the Criminal Courts and Penitentiary Chapel are located, where you can have a guided tour if you wish. And for something different take the Ghost tour of the Penitentiary Chapel.
Back towards the city on the site of the original Government House, you’ll see Hobart’s refined Town Hall, located on the corner of Elizabeth and Macquarie Streets. And visit the Cascade Brewery in south Hobart, renowned for being Australia’s oldest brewery, and said to be over 150 years old.
Near the waterfront you’ll find Salamanca Place, which has restored historic warehouses (c 1830’s) now housing restaurants and art galleries, and an antique peruser’s delight. The steep Kelly’s Steps will take you to the centre of Battery Point, named after the battery of guns set up there in 1818, and the home of an earlier seamans’ village, still retaining its intriguing little houses in narrow lanes.
Located here is historic Narryna, a Georgian sandstone townhouse set in a lovely courtyard with elm trees and fountain. Commonly known as the Van Diemen's Land Memorial Folk Museum, it has a notable collection of colonial artifacts.
Visit Parliament House, located in Murray Street. Built by convicts, and initially the Customs House, it contains the original miniature Legislative council Chamber. If you’re interested in antiquities, you’ll find the Allport Library and Museum of Fine Arts located in the State Library in Murray Street.
The National Trust restored and furnished homestead, Runnymede, (c1836) is located north in the suburb of New Town.
Plentiful shopping abounds in the Elizabeth Street Mall area. Also, of interest is the nearby Cat and Fiddle Arcade and Square, with a fountain and animated mural for your entertainment plus buskers. Visit the popular local markets every Saturday morning at Salamanca Market.
Hobart also offers a great nightlife, with the Hotel-Casino on Wrest Point, built on the headland in the nearby suburb of Sandy Bay. While you’re in Sandy Bay, inspect the model Tudor Village and the University of Tasmania. Available also for your entertainment are many characteristic old pubs and fine restaurants, particularly in the main street of north Hobart.
Scenic views abound around Hobart, to get panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas, visit the summit of Mount Wellington and the old Signal Station on top of Mount Nelson.